Hiking and Walking Trails Near Townsville: Peaks, Ranges and Coastal Walks

Townsville's position at the edge of the dry tropics and within reach of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area provides extraordinary hiking diversity. Castle Hill, visible from almost everywhere in the city, has a walking track from the base to the summit that rewards the 286-metre ascent with panoramic views across Townsville, Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay. The track is accessed from Gregory Street or the Stagpole Street car park and takes about 30 minutes at a steady pace. The Paluma Range National Park, 60 kilometres north of the city, has several walking tracks through spectacular wet sclerophyll and rainforest including the Rainforest Circuit and the Birthday Creek Falls walk. Magnetic Island's Forts Walk provides an outstanding coastal and historical walking experience accessible by ferry. The Bowling Green Bay National Park south of Townsville has walking tracks through mangrove and wetland environments. Most Townsville-area hikes are best done in the Dry season; the summer wet brings heat, humidity, and seasonal flooding on lower tracks.